Hydro One and Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) opened applications for the Hydro One Indigenous Entrepreneurship Grant in support of Indigenous-owned businesses across Ontario that are energizing life in their communities.

Last year, the Hydro One Indigenous Entrepreneurship Grant supported 28 Indigenous-owned businesses as they worked hard to recover from the impacts of the pandemic. MTS Native Services, a design, printing, and finishing company and recipient of the grant, utilized the funding to upgrade its technology and improve its services for customers.

“As a 2021 grant recipient, we were able to purchase a new automatic trimmer, significantly speeding up the printing process and allowing us to service more customers than ever before,” said Monica Staats, Owner and Manager, MTS Native Services. “With support from Hydro One and the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, MTS Native Services was able to expand and reach new heights, and for that, we are very grateful.”

“CCAB takes pride in our partnerships that support Indigenous businesses, and we are once again pleased to partner with Hydro One and their grant program in support of Ontario-based Indigenous businesses,” said Tabatha Bull, President & CEO, Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. “As Hydro One continues their journey toward reconciliation, they are demonstrating leadership in Indigenous relations and a commitment to prosperity in Indigenous communities.”

“At Hydro One, we are committed to Reconciliation and working together with Indigenous communities and businesses as true partners to foster Indigenous prosperity,” said Penny Favel, Vice President, Indigenous Relations, Hydro One. “Hydro One is committed to doing things differently, and we are proud to partner with the CCAB to invest in the success of Indigenous-owned businesses now and in the future.”

Based on the eligibility criteria, Hydro One and CCAB select eight businesses to receive a $7,500 grant and 20 businesses to receive a $2,500 grant. All recipients also receive a CCAB membership. Indigenous-owned businesses are invited to review the eligibility criteria and apply for the Hydro One Indigenous Entrepreneurship Grant at www.HydroOne.com/CCABgrants. Applications are open until October 31.

This partnership is a part of Hydro One’s commitment to direct 20 per cent of its corporate donations and sponsorships to Indigenous organizations that benefit Indigenous communities. Hydro One is also committed to increasing its Indigenous procurement spend to 5 per cent of the company’s purchases of materials and services by 2026.